Jain Mantrio

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Jain Mantrio" (Jain Ministers) by Acharya Muni Nyayavijayji, focusing on the lives of Vimal Mantri and Vastupal Mantri:

The book "Jain Mantrio" by Acharya Muni Nyayavijayji highlights the significant contributions of Jain ministers, particularly focusing on two prominent figures: Vimal Mantri and Mahamatri Vastupal. These individuals, deeply rooted in Jain principles of compassion and righteousness, served as exemplary administrators, warriors, patrons of arts and literature, and devout followers of Jainism, leaving an indelible mark on Gujarat's history.

1. Vimal Mantri:

• Background and Early Life: Vimal Mantri was born in Patan, to Vir and Viramati. His grandfather, Lahir, was a commander (Dandnayak) under Vanraj Chavda, the first king of Gujarat, indicating a lineage with a history of service and authority. Vimal's father, Vir, was deeply religious. Vimal, after receiving his education at a young age, was entrusted with household responsibilities by his father, who then took diksha (renunciation).
• Skills and Rise to Prominence: Fearing for her young son's safety after his father's renunciation, Vimal's mother took him to her paternal home. There, Vimal honed his skills in archery and developed great physical strength, earning widespread admiration. This prowess caught the attention of the Nagarseth (chief merchant) of Patan, who, impressed by Vimal, gave him his daughter in marriage. Despite initial financial struggles due to his mother's family's poverty, Vimal discovered hidden wealth, enabling a grand wedding befitting his lineage.
• Ministerial and Military Career: Vimal later moved to Patan and demonstrated his exceptional archery skills to Gurjar king Bhim. Pleased, Bhim appointed him as a commander. Through his intelligence and skills, Vimal gradually rose to become the chief minister (Mahamatri) of Gurjar. His tenure was marked by effective administration and military successes. He is noted for defeating regional rulers like Bhaj of Bharuch and Bamnu-Pandia of Thatta. While specific details of all his battles are scarce, the "Vimalprabandh" suggests he defeated twelve sultans of Ramnagar in the east. The text also speculates about his involvement in repelling an invasion around 1080 AD, possibly after the defeat of the Gurjar king by Shahabuddin Ghori, where Vimal might have achieved victory over the invading forces.
• Royal Recognition and Renunciation: Vimal's achievements and prowess earned him titles like "Chandrar" and "Chandravatish," signifying his regency over Chandravati. During his time in Chandravati, he met Shri Dharmaghosha Suri, who greatly influenced him. Under the Suri's guidance, Vimal developed a deep faith in Jainism. The Suri advised him to dedicate his remaining life to religious activities.
• Temple Construction: Following this spiritual awakening, Vimal decided to build a temple on Mount Abu. He acquired land through negotiation and payment, emphasizing fairness. He then commissioned a magnificent and artistically rich Jinchaitya (Jain temple) on Abu, using considerable wealth. This temple, a testament to his devotion and artistic appreciation, stands as a glowing monument to his legacy. He also commissioned an 18-part brass idol of Adinath Prabhu (the first Tirthankar) and had it consecrated by his guru, Shri Dharmaghosha Suri, in 1008 AD. Vimal also constructed grand Jin temples in Chandravati itself, which was then known as Jainpuri.
• Legacy: Vimal Mantri is remembered not only for his administrative and military acumen but also for his philanthropic deeds and his role as a pillar of Gujarat. His fame as a minister and warrior is celebrated by poets and writers of his time. The text concludes by quoting a verse that praises Vimal's widespread fame, spanning across directions.

2. Mahamatri Vastupal:

• Family and Early Life: Vastupal and his twin brother Tejpal were prominent ministers under Maharana Viradhaval of Gujarat. They hailed from the Pragvat (Perwad) dynasty, their father being Ashvaraj Mantri and mother Kumaradevi. Ashvaraj served as the minister of Suntalakpur. Vastupal married Lilavati, and Tejpal married Pama Devi. After their father's death, the brothers moved to Mandal and later, during a pilgrimage, met the royal priest Someshwar Bhatt in Dhalkpur, which led them to reside in Chedhoka.
• Appointment as Minister: Gujarat was in need of capable ministers. Vastupal and Tejpal were identified for this role, possibly even foretold in a dream to the king. Upon confirmation from the priest, King Viradhaval appointed them. Vastupal accepted the position with a condition: that if anyone spoke ill of them to the king, they should be allowed to leave with their wealth and family.
• Administrative Prowess: After becoming minister, Vastupal took charge of state affairs with meticulous organization. He prioritized the well-being of his subjects, ensuring their happiness and addressing their grievances. He restored the glory of Gujarat to the standards set by previous rulers like Siddharaj and Kumarpal. He fostered a just administration by honoring the virtuous and punishing the wicked. He recovered ill-gotten wealth from corrupt officials and used it to strengthen the army. He maintained respectful relations with religious figures, honored the elderly, supported the learned and pious, and warned the wicked. His administration was characterized by justice, welfare, and strategic management.
• Diplomacy and Relations with Delhi: A notable diplomatic achievement was Vastupal's handling of the mother of Delhi's Sultan Mozamuddin. She was robbed while passing through Gujarat. Vastupal, upon learning of this, arranged for her safe passage, recovered the stolen goods, compensated her, and even accompanied her to Mecca. This act impressed the Sultan, leading to a friendly alliance between Gujarat and the Delhi Sultanate.
• Military Achievements: Vastupal was also a formidable warrior. He, along with Viradhaval, fought and defeated the proud rulers of Saurashtra, Sang and Chamund, who had defied the Gurjar King. He also quelled a rebellion in Bhadreshwar (Kutch) by Maharanu Bhimsingh, who had allied with three exiled princes of Malwa. Vastupal's strategic brilliance and courage were evident in his tactics, which involved dividing his forces to create confusion and ultimately defeat the enemy. He later faced the rebellious ruler of Godhra, Ghugar, who had insulted the Gurjar King. In this conflict, Tejpal, Vastupal's brother, played a crucial role, capturing Ghugar and bringing him back to the capital.
• Philanthropy and Patronage of Arts: Vastupal was renowned for his charitable activities. He provided aid to the needy, dug wells and lakes, built rest houses, and constructed numerous temples. He was also a great patron of poets and scholars, earning the title "Laghu Bhojraja" (a lesser Bhoj, referring to the legendary king known for his patronage of arts). He supported poets like Harihar, Someshwar, Damodar, and others, enriching Gujarati literature. His generosity extended to supporting the construction of mosques for Muslims, demonstrating his inclusive approach to public welfare.
• Religious Devotion: Vastupal was a devout Jain Shravak, adhering strictly to the twelve vows and performing daily religious rituals. He regularly sought guidance from prominent Jain Acharyas. He funded the renovation of many temples and the construction of the famous temples on Mount Abu. He undertook significant pilgrimages, organizing large religious processions.
• Legacy: Vastupal's life was a multifaceted success. He excelled as a minister, a warrior, a benefactor of the suffering, a poet, and a devout religious follower. His numerous public works, architectural achievements (like the Abu temples), and literary contributions have immortalized his name. The text concludes by detailing his vast charitable endeavors, including the construction of numerous Jain temples, renovation of existing ones, installation of countless idols, construction of Shivlingas, and the establishment of schools and shelters. Vastupal passed away in 1098 VS (1041-1042 AD) during a pilgrimage. His pure soul, like a shining star, continues to illuminate the world, and his fame endures.

In essence, "Jain Mantrio" presents Vimal Mantri and Vastupal Mantri as paragons of Jain leadership, demonstrating that adherence to religious principles does not preclude strength, administrative capability, or engagement with worldly affairs. Their lives serve as inspiring examples of how faith and duty can be harmoniously integrated to achieve great public good.